Differences between look over and look up
Look over means to examine or review something carefully, while look up means to search for information in a reference source or to find someone's location.
Meanings and Definitions: look over vs look up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Look over
- 1Inspect.
They came to LOOK the house OVER with a view to buying it.
Look up
- 1Consult a reference work ( dictionary, phonebook, etc. ) for a specific piece of information..
I didn't know the correct spelling so I had to LOOK it UP in the dictionary.
- 2Improve.
The economy is LOOKING UP.
- 3Find, trace an old friend.
I LOOKED him UP when I went back to Cambridge.
Usage Examples: look over, look up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
look over
Example
Please look over the report before submitting it.
Example
She looks over her notes before the presentation.
look up
Example
When I don't know a word, I look it up in the dictionary.
Example
She looks up new recipes online every week.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Look over
To examine or inspect something closely and critically.
Example
The teacher had to scrutinize each student's essay to ensure they followed the guidelines and met the requirements.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Look up
To investigate or study a topic or subject in detail.
Example
He spent hours researching the best travel destinations before planning his trip.
To find the position or whereabouts of someone or something.
Example
She had to locate the nearest hospital after her friend got injured during their hike.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “look”
Phrasal Verbs with “over”
Phrasal Verbs with “up”
Differences in look over vs look up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: look over or look up?
In daily conversation, people use look up more often than look over. This is because look up is used frequently when searching for information online or in a dictionary. Look over is not used as much, but it's still a common phrase when reviewing documents or materials.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of look over and look up
Look over and look up are both informal phrases that are suitable for everyday conversations. However, look up can also be used in more formal settings like academic or business contexts when referring to researching information.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of look over and look up
The tone of look over and look up can differ based on context. Look over often carries a serious or critical tone when related to reviewing or examining something, while look up typically has a curious or helpful tone, especially when referring to finding information or someone's location.
